Complications of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) / Pulmonary Embolism or PE
Pulmonary embolism is the major complication of deep vein thrombosis. It is a life threatening situation when a piece of this blood clot breaks away (embolus, plural=emboli), moves downstream through the heart into the pulmonary circulation system, and reaches the lung. When it happen the patient complains of chest pain and shortness of breath. Sometimes they may also have blood in the sputum.
Post-phlebitic syndrome is another complication. Patient develops a chronically swollen and painful limb. Skin colour changes and ulcers ensue.
